Formamide is a colorless, viscous liquid with a faint ammonia-like odor. It is the simplest carboxylic acid amide, and is miscible with water and many organic solvents. Formamide is a polar solvent and is used in a variety of applications, including:
- As a solvent for proteins, DNA, and RNA
- In the production of pharmaceuticals, herbicides, and pesticides
- As a cryoprotectant for tissues and organs
- In the manufacture of hydrocyanic acid
- As a softener for paper and fiber
- As a solvent for resins and plasticizers
Formamide is also a potential building block for life. It has been found in meteorites and comets, and it is thought to be one of the first molecules to form in the universe. Some scientists believe that formamide could have played a role in the origin of life on Earth.
Formamide is a hazardous chemical and can be harmful to human health. It is a skin irritant and can cause respiratory problems if inhaled. Formamide is also a suspected carcinogen. It is important to take precautions when handling formamide and to wear protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator.
Here are some additional details about formamide:
- Molecular formula: HCONH2
- Molecular weight: 45.041 g/mol
- Melting point: 2 °C (35.6 °F)
- Boiling point: 210 °C (410 °F)
- Density: 1.11 g/cm3
- Flash point: 105 °C (221 °F)
- Autoignition temperature: 378 °C (710 °F)
- Toxicity: LD50 (oral, rat): 1200 mg/kg
- Carcinogenicity: IARC Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans)
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